United Regional Health Care System

12/01/2025

Dr. Patrick T. Roughneen is a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon with United Regional Physician Group.

He studied biochemistry at the University of Glasgow and earned his medical degree from the University of Leicester. His surgical training includes general surgery and research at the University of Texas in Houston, cardiac surgery at the Texas Heart Institute, and congenital heart surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. He also holds an MBA in Healthcare from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Roughneen is recognized for his expertise in cardiac valve surgery, adult congenital heart disease, and transplantation. As a clinical professor and active researcher, he is passionate about education and innovation in cardiac care.

Outside of medicine, he enjoys golf, tennis, and fitness. He is married to Cherie, a former cardiac nurse, and has a daughter and granddaughter.

Learn more about Dr. Roughneen by watching his biography video at https://youtu.be/1PaASuv8ewY.

12/01/2025

In our effort to promote a healthy and thriving community, United Regional and the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank have teamed up to provide a Mobile Pantry, offering our community with food donations and free health screenings (such as blood pressure checks, blood glucose monitoring, and health education). Groceries and health services are available at various locations on specified dates and times for those in need. No documentation or registration is required, simply answer a few questions. For more information, please visit https://www.wfafb.org/mobilepantry?fbclid=IwY2xjawNvMF9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaTjhBYXV6ZmV5OGhmaE1BAR5-yICVtekJaaie7cAh0sQ0aDw_YBIcaqWpQ1Fv1rDhYDGENyG9ab7UrR5MZw_aem_AGBXylL3QnOCsdnTUh63mA

11/28/2025

Dr. Shahab Akvan is a board-certified cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon with United Regional Physician Group.

He brings a wealth of experience from institutions such as the University of Florida, Drexel University, the Texas Heart Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, and MD Anderson Cancer Center. His advanced training in complex vascular procedures and thoracic oncology reflects his deep commitment to patient care. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Akvan is known for his compassionate approach and unwavering dedication.

Outside of work, he’s a hands-on father of two daughters, an avid gym-goer, and enjoys spending time with his family in Wichita Falls.

Learn more about Dr. Akvan by watching his biography video at https://youtu.be/BfiyQp3mWr4.

11/27/2025

United Regional partnered with the Wichita Falls YMCA to support the Gobble Wobble 5K this morning. The event featured both a 5K run and a one-mile family fun run, celebrating the many benefits of physical activity — including improved heart health, mental wellness, and overall vitality. Thank you to the United Regional employees who participated and supported the event. We are proud to be part of a wonderful cause that brings our community together to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of staying active.
United Regional is always finding ways to further support our community. To learn more, visit

https://unitedregional.org/about-us/commitment-to-community

11/26/2025

United Regional has earned its sixth MyChart Diamond Designation, a distinction achieved by fewer than 1% of organizations — only five out of 574 evaluated. Each Diamond represents excellence in MyChart features that enhance patient engagement and care. Our newest Diamond recognizes Patient Journeys and Remote Patient Monitoring, highlighting telehealth capabilities and device integration. Combined with previous Diamonds for Telehealth, Interoperability, and Patient Messaging, this achievement reflects our commitment to patient-centered care and digital innovation.

11/26/2025

Tina Shell, a hard-working waitress, faced debilitating health issues that left her in constant pain and unable to work. With no support system, she fell into a deep depression.
Tina was connected with United Regional's High-Risk Navigation Team and the Transition Clinic, where she received life-changing support. With help from United Regional's Community Care Fund — which provides vulnerable patients with essential resources like medication, food, transportation, and care — and Meredith Grantham, Community Health Advocate, Tina began to rebuild her life. She started with basics: securing bedding and clothing, accessing medical treatment, and navigating critical paperwork. With a support system now in place, she found housing, received disability income, and eventually returned to work. With each step, Tina found the strength to push forward and embrace recovery.
Today, Tina is in a much better place — physically, mentally, and emotionally. She’s lost weight to help manage her diabetes, takes regular walks, and has become more sociable. Though she still experiences moments of depression, she now recognizes they will pass and continues to move forward with hope. Tina has reconnected with family members she had previously cut ties with and even helped her brother seek care through United Regional's High-Risk Navigation Team.
“Knowing that someone is proud of you means everything,” expressed Tina. “Meredith is always positive, and I know she cares. Her team sees everyone as a potential success.
Now filled with gratitude, Tina credits the Transition Clinic and community donations for transforming her life and sees tomorrow as an opportunity. “There is hope,” Tina says. “United Regional’s Transition Clinic was that hope for me. I wouldn’t have made it without them.”
If you are interested in donating to United Regional’s Community Care Fund, please visit https://unitedregional.org/united-regional-foundation/communitycarefund/.

11/26/2025

In this month’s Healthy You segment, we’re featuring Dr. Shahab Akvan and Dr. Patrick T. Roughneen — trusted members of our medical community who have recently joined United Regional Physician Group.
Together, they bring extensive expertise in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, offering advanced treatments for conditions of the heart, lungs, and chest. In this segment, they explain the difference between cardiovascular and thoracic care and how these specialties work together to provide comprehensive treatment for patients across our region.
To learn more about our cardiovascular and thoracic surgery services, visit https://unitedregional.org/services/cardiac-care.

Robert Allen, a long-time volunteer firefighter, experienced a life-changing heart attack and received top-notch care from United Regional’s medical team, who advised anyone experiencing simi…

11/25/2025

United Regional takes pride in finding ways to help our community. Our Community Health Education Nurse provides education, vaccinations, and health screenings to thousands of residents each year. At neighborhood mobile food pantries, in 2024, she alone identified and educated more than 500 community members with high blood sugar and hypertension, an added benefit to the residents who received over 11,000 food boxes, provided in part by United Regional.
Learn more about how we support our community: https://unitedregional.org/medical-services/community-support/.

11/25/2025

United Regional is honored to partner with Texoma’s Fox to recognize athletic talent in Texoma! Through this partnership, at the end of the academic year, seven athletes will be rewarded for their passion, discipline, success, and sportsmanship with $1,000 scholarships.

The KFDX/Texoma’s Fox athlete of the week comes from Graham.He is a junior on the steers football team who played a critical role in the their win last Friday night.Thomason Burkett helping h…

11/24/2025

As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, please note that all URPG locations/clinics will be closed Thursday, November 27. All clinics will remain closed on Friday, November 28, except for CarePlus which will reopen on Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.. To learn more about the services and providers at URPG, please visit: https://www.unitedregional.org/.

11/21/2025

United Regional recently hosted another Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC) meeting, continuing our commitment to empowering patients and families through education and collaboration.
This session focused on practical guidance for using and troubleshooting MyChart, ensuring participants feel confident navigating this essential tool for managing their health. The discussion also highlighted the wide range of services available through our Transition Care Clinic, with clear instructions on how to access these resources for a seamless care experience.
By sharing these insights, PFAC reinforces its role as a vital link between patient needs and clinical expertise — helping our community stay informed, connected, and supported.

11/21/2025

Members of the Human Resources department volunteered with the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry! Their dedication to service reflects the values we strive to uphold — ensuring that every member of our community has access to essential support.
Beyond daily responsibilities, our team is proud to contribute to meaningful efforts that strengthen our community. Volunteering together not only deepens our connections but also highlights why our team is such a vital part of the broader mission.
Learn more about our service to the community at https://unitedregional.org/medical.../community-services.